POLICE are this week handing out free crime busting devices at a Hampshire supermarket.

A Safer Neighbourhoods Team will be at Waitrose in Romsey today (Monday) and Tuesday to give out lanyards so shoppers can attach their purses or wallets to the inside of their bags or pockets.

Officers are giving away the security leads as well as offering tips on how to prevent distraction burglaries.

And during the week they will also visit past break-in victims to check whether their homes are secure.

Sergeant Jon Whitlock said: "Older women are often the target for this type of crime. Bags left unattended on shopping trolleys or baskets are easy pickings for thieves, sometimes a person is engaged in conversation to distract them while their purse is being stolen.

"We are also using this opportunity to engage with members of our community who are more likely to become a victim of distraction burglary.

"With the assistance of Trading Standards and the Bobby Trust charity we will be giving out crime prevention tips to avoid letting a distraction burglar and arranging to fit more secure locks to doors and windows free of charge."